What is a Performance Solution?

Every building in Australia must meet the National Construction Code (NCC). The NCC sets out the minimum safety, health, and performance standards for how buildings are designed and built.

There are two main ways to show a building meets these rules:

• Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS): Following the standard, step-by-step rules written in the NCC.
• Performance Solution: Using a different method or design that achieves the same — or better — level of safety and performance as the standard rules.

A Performance Solution gives designers and builders more flexibility. It’s often used when a project includes unique designs, new materials, or when following the standard DTS rules isn’t practical.

How the Process Works

Developing a Performance Solution follows a structured process under the NCC and ABCB guidelines:

1. Design Brief
   The first step is to set out the goals of the project and identify which NCC rules apply. This is called a Performance-Based Design Brief (PBDB). It defines what the building needs to achieve (for example, keeping water out, preventing fire spread, or ensuring accessibility).
   
   
2. Assessment
   The proposed solution is then tested or assessed. This can be done using calculations, modelling, expert opinion, or by comparing it with the NCC’s standard approach.
   
   
3. Report
   All details — such as test data, design drawings, risk assessments, and reasoning — are recorded in a Performance-Based Design Report (PBDR).
   
   
4. Approval
   Finally, the Building Surveyor or Certifier reviews the report. If the solution can clearly show it meets the NCC’s performance goals, it is accepted as compliant.

Why It Matters

Performance Solutions make it possible to achieve compliance without being limited by one-size-fits-all rules. 

They encourage practical, safe, and innovative outcomes — especially for projects that involve modern materials, heritage buildings, complex waterproofing details, or new construction methods.

At Performance Solutions Australia, we specialise in preparing these reports with a focus on compliance, evidence, and professional accountability. 

Our role is to ensure every alternative design still meets the intent and safety standards of the NCC — just through a smarter, more tailored pathway.